GB2538349A

GB2538349A - Mobile scaffolding

Info

Publication number: GB2538349A
Application number: GB1604131.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Cox Robert
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-03-11
Filing date: 2016-03-10
Publication date: 2016-11-16
Anticipated expiration: 2036-03-10
Also published as: GB2538349B; GB201604131D0; GB201504139D0

Abstract

A scaffolding tower comprises a folding frame comprising first 22 and second end sections connected by a folding side section and a platform 4 connectable to the frame at two or more heights from the ground. A guard rail surrounds the platform, defining a periphery of the frame. An adjustable step system is connectable to the first end of the frame and comprises a first step unit arranged to extend outwardly of the periphery of the frame and a second step unit arranged to extend inwardly between the first end of the folding frame and the platform. The platform may comprise a hinged section and a hatch, and the rail may comprise a gate. Also claimed are a kit of parts to make a scaffolding tower, an extension pack for connecting to the tower, an adjustable step system, a folding frame and a locking sleeve connector.

Description

MOBILE SCAFFOLDING

This invention relates to mobile scaffolding and to foldaway tower scaffolding in particular.

Mobile scaffolding and mobile foldaway tower scaffolding have been used in the constructions industry for many years. Such scaffolding towers may be used in interior and exterior situations to provide access for tasks that do not justify the use of fixed scaffolding.

Typically known foldaway scaffolding towers comprise a platform supported at a height above ground level and having a safety guard rail around the platform. Typically the platform is accessed by a trap door in the platform. in many scaffolding towers the height of the platform can be adjusted. Accessing the platform through the trap door is more convenient when the platform is above torso height, typically 1.3m.

However it has been found that accessing the platform through the trap door when the platform is at a height of less than 1.3m from the ground is extremely difficult and has led to users removing rails to ease access. Such alterations to the guard rails around the platform compromise the safety of the user on the scaffolding tower.

it is known to use ladders fixed to the scaffolding tower or to provide a set of fixed steps integral with the scaffolding tower or to provide a set of fixed steps connectable to the scaffolding tower.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved foldaway scaffolding tower. It is another object of the present invention to provide a scaffolding tower having easy and flexible access to the platform.

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a scaffolding tower 30 comprising a folding frame comprising a first end section and a second end section connected by a folding side section; a platform connectable to the frame at two or more levels to form a working platform at two or more heights from the ground; the platform having a first and a second side and a first and a second end; a guard rail system connectable to the frame and arranged to surround the working platform; the guard rail system defining an periphery of the frame and having an opening in at least the first end and the scaffolding tower further comprising an adjustable step system connectable to the first end of the frame wherein the adjustable step system comprises a first step unit arranged to be connectable to the first end and in use to extend outwardly of the periphery of the frame and a second step unit arranged to be connectable the first end and in use to extend inwardly of the periphery of the frame between the first end of the folding frame and the platform.

There is provided a scaffolding tower comprising a folding frame a platform connectable to the frame at two or more levels to form a working platform at two or more heights from the ground; the platform having a first and a second side and a first and a second end; a guard rail system connectable to the frame and arranged to surround the the guard rail system having an openable gate in at least the first end; the scaffolding tower further comprising an adjustable step system connectable to the first end.

Preferably the adjustable step system comprises a first step unit having a number of steps connectable to the first end of the frame to provide access to multiple levels.

An advantage of the scaffolding tower is that the platform can be located at a number of heights above ground level and the adjustable step system facilitates access to the platform at each level so making high frequency entry and exit quicker and safer.

Preferably the folding frame has a cutaway at the first end and the first end comprises first and second cross bars and a cut away section in the frame, the cut away section having first and second uprights on either side of the cutaway section. A further cut away section may be provided at the second end. An openable gate and a second adjustable step system may also be provided at the second end.

In a preferred embodiment the adjustable step system comprises an external first step unit connectable to at least one of the first and second bars of the frame. The first step unit extends outwardly from the periphery of the frame in use.

in some embodiments the external first step unit can be connected to the first or second bar using a quick release clip. The quick release clip may be of the form commonly used to connect scaffolding tubes and formed as a U shaped holder adapted to fit over a tube or bar. Preferably the external first step unit comprises an upper arm and a lower arm and the upper and lower arms are connectable to the first and the second bar of the frame respectively. In some embodiments the upper arm is integral with a support structure supporting treads of the step or steps. Preferably the lower arm is provided which in preferred embodiments is hinged to the support structure. The lower arm may also be connectable to the first bar of the frame.

Preferably the external first step unit comprises a first and a second tread.

Advantageously one tread is provided level with the lower arm and one tread is provided level with the upper arm. in use the platform is located at the second level and can be easily accessed from the ground by means of the step unit.

In a particularly preferred embodiment the adjustable step unit can be moved between a storage position and an active position. in the storage position the first step unit may be disconnected from the frame or may be moved to a storage position connected to the frame. In the storage position the lower arm may have a releasable clip arranged to be able to connect the step unit to the first bar of the frame. Preferably the upper arm also comprises a releasable connector such that the upper arm can be connected to the second bar of the frame. Desirably in the active position the upper and lower arms are connected to the second and first bars of the frame respectively. Preferably in the storage position connected to a frame the lower arm is connected to the first bar and the upper arm is disconnected from the frame. The first step unit can rotate about the hinge between the lower arm and the support structure so that the first step unit is positioned closer to the frame allowing for more compact storage and transport of the scaffolding tower.

Alternatively the first step unit can be dismounted from the scaffolding tower in use.

In use the platform is movable to be connectable to the foldable frame at for example a third level. The user can step up from the second tread to the platform at the third level.

Desirably the adjustable step system comprises a further step connectable to the first and second uprights. The further step may be arranged to connect to the frame between the first and second uprights in the first end of the frame. Preferably the further step is connectable at the third level. In a desired embodiment the further step is connectable to the uprights by means of spring loaded bolts, metal stop rings or similar methods which are preferably located at either end of the further step.

In use the platform can be located at a fourth level and the user can step up from the further step to the platform at the fourth level.

Preferably the platform comprises a hinged section arranged such that when the platform is connected to the foldable frame the hinged section is adjacent the first end. in a preferred embodiment the platform further comprises a hinged trap door located at the end remote from the hinged section. It will be appreciated that in an alternative embodiment an alternative platform may be provided that has a length that is shorter than the first side of the folding frame.

Desirably the step system comprises a second step unit in the form of a step insert arranged to be connectable to the folding frame and having two opposed support arms and at least one step extending there between. The second step unit, or step insert, may be connectable to the frame once the hinged section of the platform has been raised. Preferably a brace is provided extending between the support arms. The brace may be arranged to butt against the platform.

The second step unit may comprise one or two steps or more steps. Preferably the step insert comprises at least two steps.

Preferably the step of the step insert, or second step unit, is within a periphery of the frame when the step insert or second step unit is connected to the.frame. According to the invention the second step unit is arranged to be connectable to the first end of the frame to provide access to the platform, which may be arranged to be at one of multiple levels. The second step unit is arranged to extend from the first end within a periphery of the frame to the platform.

Typically the folding frame comprises at least four uprights each of which may have a number of locating aperture. Preferably guard rail system comprises at least four uprights adapted to cooperate with the folding frame uprights and to be adjustably located in the folding frame uprights. The guard rail system can be adjusted to provide a guard rail at a suitable height relative to the platform. The guard rail system defines a periphery of the frame extending around the platform.

In some embodiments the guard rail system comprises first and second side rail sections connectable to uprights of the guard rail. The guard rail system may comprise a number of connectors.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a locking sleeve connector for scaffolding, the connector comprising a sleeve having a first end and a second end and an opening extending longitudinally from the first end the opening having first and second transverse extensions, the connecter being adapted and arranged such that in use the connector is retained on a first bar and having a first projection, the connector being arranged to receive a second bar having a second projection within the connector, the second projection being received within the opening, rotation of the connector once the transverse openings are aligned with the first and the second projections locking the first and second bars together.

Preferably the connectors are in accordance with the second aspect of the invention.

In some embodiments the connectors are slideable on and retainable on a bar of a rail section of the guard rail system and arranged to slide over and lock onto a projection on a rail of the upright.

in preferred embodiments the guard rail system comprises gate hinged to one of the side rails. The gate may comprise an upper section extending across the first end between the side rails. The gate may also comprise a lower section connected to the upper section by first and second uprights. A pole or rail may extend between the two uprights and may be provided with extendible ends.

In some embodiments the scaffolding tower may further comprise an extension pack arranged to be fitted to the uprights. The extension pack may comprise a rung upper extension pack adapted to be connectable to a top of the uprights of the frame. In another embodiment the extension pack may comprise one or more rung uppers adapted to be connected to a base of the uprights of the frame. A leg extension may also be provided arranged to be connected to the external step unit. The extension pack may comprise one or more rung uppers. The rung uppers may be one, two, three, four, five or more rung uppers. A leg extension may be provided corresponding to each respective rung upper height. Preferably the extension pack rung uppers are each provided with lockable wheels which may facilitate mobility of the scaffolding tower.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a kit of parts comprising an adjustable step system comprising a first step unit and a second step unit; and optionally at least one of a folding frame, a guard rail system, one or more connectors; a hinged platform; such that the contents of kit can be used to make a scaffolding tower n accordance the first aspect of the invention.

There may be provided a kit of parts comprising at least one of a folding frame, a platform, a step system, and a guard rail system, arranged and adapted to form a scaffolding tower in accordance with the first aspect of the invention.

The kit of parts may further comprise an extension pack comprising at least one rung upper arranged to be connectable to the top of the uprights of the frame or adapted to be connected to a base of the uprights of the frame.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided an extension pack arranged and adapted to be connected to the foldable frame of a scaffolding tower in accordance with the first aspect of the invention.

The extension pack may be arranged to connect to the uprights of the foldable frame such that the platform can be fixed at higher levels above the ground.

it will be appreciated that once the platform is at a higher level than the step insert then the platform can be accessed by means of the hatch.

in another embodiment the extension pack may comprise one or more rung uppers adapted to be connected to the base of the uprights of the frame as described above.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided an adjustable step system adapted to be connectable to a scaffolding tower having a platform and a guard rail system arranged around a periphery of the platform; the adjustable step system comprising at least a first step unit arranged to be connectable to a first end of a foldable frame of a scaffolding tower and in use to extend externally from the first end; and a second step unit arranged to be able to connect to the first end of the foldable frame and in use to extend internally of a periphery of the scaffolding tower between the first end and the platform.

The invention will now be further described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a scaffolding tower n accordance with the invention; Figure 2 is a side view of the scaffolding tower of Figure 1; Figure 3 is a perspective view of the scaffolding tower with a platform at a second level; Figure 4 is a side view of the scaffolding tower of Figure 3 Figure 5 is a perspective view of the scaffolding tower with a platform at a third level; Figure 6 is a side view of the scaffolding tower of Figure 5; Figure 7 is a perspective view of the scaffolding tower with a platform at a fourth level; Figure 8 is a side view of the scaffolding tower of Figure 7 Figure 9 is a perspective view of the scaffolding tower with an upper extension unit; Figure 10 is a view of the end sections of the scaffolding tower; Figures 11a, is a plan view of the scaffolding tower with levels 1, 2 and 3; Figure llb is a plan view of the scaffolding tower with level 4 and level 5 and with an open hinged section; Figures 12a is a plan view of the scaffolding tower of Figure 1 lb with the hinged section open; Figure 12b is a view of the underside of the scaffolding tower; Figure 13a and 13b are front and side views of a step insert forming the second step unit; Figure 14 is side, end, top and partial cross section through the step insert of Figure 13; Figure 15 is a series of side views of the first step unit moving from an active to a storage position; Figure 16 is a view of an end and side frame of a guard rail system of the scaffolding 30 tower; Figures 17a is a view of a first embodiment of a gate; Figure 17b is a plan view of the gate of Figure 17a; Figure 17c is a reverse view of the gate of Figure 17a; Figure 18 shows a view of an alternative embodiment of a gate; Figure 19 is a plan view of the gate of Figure 18, Figure 20 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the scaffolding tower with a rung upper extension connected to the bottom of the frame; Figure 21 is a perspec e view of a modified embodiment; Figure 22 is a perspective view of an alternative platform; Figure 23 is a perspec e view of an alternative embodiment of a first step unit; Figure 24 is a side view of the first step unit of Figure 23; Figure 25 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a second step unit; Figure 26 is a perspective view of an alternative further step; and Figure 27 is a view of an alternative first end of a folding frame.

A scaffolding tower 1 in accordance with the invention is shown in perspective view in Figure 1 and comprises a folding frame 2 having a platform 4 connectable to the frame 2 at a number of heights from the ground. The platform 2 has a first side 6 and a second side 8 and a first end 10 and a second end 12. The scaffolding tower also comprises a guard rail system generally indicated at 14 and comprising rails 16 arranged around the platform 4. The guard rail system 14 has a gate I8 at the first end of the platform. The scaffolding tower also comprises an adjustable step system generally indicated at 20. The guard rail system is provided around a periphery of the tower.

The folding frame 2 is the same general type as has been used in the past and comprises a first end section 22 and a second end section 24 generally formed of tubular sections welded or otherwise connected together. The folding frame 2 also comprises a side section 26 linking the first and second end sections 22 and 24 and hinged to each respective end section. The side section 26 is formed of braced rods 28 having locking elbow connections 30 centrally located in the side section. When the locking elbows 30 are released the side section 26 can fold in half and rotate about hinges 32 on the first and second end sections allowing the frame to fold bringing the first and second end sections 22 and 24 together.

The folding frame 2 has wheels 34 at the base of each upright 36 to provide for easy movement of the scaffolding tower 1. The wheels 34 are lockable for safety reasons.

Each end section 22, 24 has a number of cross rails 38 which extend from uprights 36 of the frame. Each end section has the same number of cross rails 38 arranged at corresponding heights above ground level, The platform 4 is connectable to the cross rails 38 allowing the platform 4 to be positioned at a number of heights above the ground.

The first end of the folding frame 2 has a cutaway forming an opening 40 generally indicated at 40 in the end of the folding frame. In the first end section 22 sonic of the cross rails 38 extend only partially across the end section. First 42 and second 44 cross rails extend all the way across the first end section 22 between the upright 36. Third 46 and fourth 48 level cross rails extend between the uprights 36 and access uprights 50 at either side of the opening. The access uprights 50 are angled to connect to the frame uprights 36 forming a fifth level bar 52.

In the second end section 24 the cross rails 38 extend all the way between the frame uprights at each of the first to fifth levels. The second end section 24 is of the kind known as a rung upper or a 5 rung upper in the trade.

The cross rails 38 are spaced every 200mm and the first cross rail is typically spaced 300mm from the ground. The top cross rail, typically the fifth cross rail is generally about 1100mm above ground level.

The gate 18 in the guard rail system 14, which will be described in more detail later, is arranged to dose off the opening 40 so providing for enhanced security for a user working on the platform 4. In some embodiments a gate may be provided at both ends of the frame.

Turing to Figure 3 for ease of reference, the platform 4 is similar to a typical platform used in existing scaffolding towers and is connectable to the folding frame 2 by means of clips 56 located in the corners of the platform. The platform 4 has a hinged section 58 at a first end which will be described in more detail later. As in existing platforms a trap door 60 is provided at the second end. The trap door 60 is hinged to the platform 4 and secured with a quick release clip 62. As will be described the trap door 60 can be used to access the platform 4 when the platform is at a level that is high off the ground.

The adjustable step system 20 will now be described in more detail. The adjustable step system comprises a series of steps connectable to the scaffolding tower.

In this embodiment the step system 20 comprises an external first step unit 62, a further step 64 and a second step unit formed by step insert 66.

The external first step unit 62 comprises a pair of upper arms 68, 68' and a pair of lower arms 70, 70' each connectable to the first 42 and second 44 cross rails of the end section of the frame. A first tread 72 extends between the upper arms at generally the same level as the lower arms 70, 70' are connected to the upper arms 68, 68'. The upper arms and the lower arms are connected together and are each connectable to the cross rails by means of scaffold pole clips 74 fixed to the end of the arms. The scaffold pole clips are of the type which are U shaped holders arranged to fit over and connect to a scaffold pole or bar. Such clips or connectors are well known in the trade. A support bar 76 extends between the pair of lower arms 70, 70' acting as a brace and providing stability to the external step unit 20. A second tread 78 extends between the upper arms at generally the same level as the second cross rail 44 to which the upper arms are connected.

Each of the upper and lower arms connect releasably to the cross rails 38. The external first step unit 20 is shown in more detail in Figure 15. The lower arm is hinged to the upper arm. In an inoperative position the upper arm can be disconnected from the second cross rail and the hinge between the upper and lower arms allows the upper arm to rotate and translate so that in an inoperative position the upper arm can be stowed close the first end section of the folding frame.

As can be seen in Figure 1 the platform 4 can be connected to the folding frame 2 at a first level above the ground in which the platform is connected to the second level 44 of cross rails. The platform 4 is low to the ground and it will be appreciated that access to the platform through the trap door 60 is difficult if not impossible at this height. In the past access has often been achieved by climbing through or over the guard rail system 14, with associated safety risks.

in contrast when the scaffolding tower I in accordance with the invention is used with the external step unit 20 attached easy access to the platform 4 is provided by means of the first and second treads 72, 78 at the first end of the scaffolding tower. The gate 18 can be readily opened and closed providing additional security to a user on the platform 4 The scaffolding tower 1 will now be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4 which are perspective and side views of the scaffolding tower with the platform located at a second height from the ground and connected to the third cross bars 46. At the second end the third cross bar 46 extends across the end section while at the first end the third cross bar extends from the frame upright 36 to the access upright 50. The access upright 50 can be seen referenced in Figures 5 and 7.

Access to the platform 4 remains easy as the user can step from the second tread 78 up to the platform 4. The platform is accessed by a simple walk up and step though the opening 40 onto the platform.

it can also be seen that the guard rail system 14 can be adjusted in height relative to the frame uprights 36. Connection of the guard rail system to the uprights is by means of guard rail bars 80 sliding within the frame uprights 36 which are formed of hollow tubes 82 as can be seen readily in Figure 10. The guard rail bars 80 and tubes 82 are connected by means of quick release locking pins 84 secured to the uprights. A number of locating holes 86 in the uprights allows for easy adjustment of the height of the guard rail system 14 to maintain an appropriate height above the platform 4. The adjustment means is well known in the field and will not be further described since it is readily understood by the skilled man.

Turning now to Figures 5 and 6 which show the scaffolding tower 1 with the platform 4 at a third height. The platform 4 is connected to the fourth level 48 cross bars in the same way as for the third level bars 46.

it will be appreciated that the distance from the second tread 78 of the external first step unit 62 to the platform height is now too great. The adjustable step system 20 comprises a further step 88 which is now fixed to the access uprights so the further step 88 extends between the access uprights 50. The further step 88 is connected to the uprights by a spring release bolt 90 (best seen in Figure 14) that is received in corresponding apertures 92 in the access uprights 50. The further step 88 is arranged to be located at the same level as the third cross bars. The further step 88 is in line with an envelope or a periphery of the frame. in some embodiments the further step may be slightly forward of an envelope of the frame.

Figures 7 and 8 illustrate the scaffolding tower with the platform 4 at a fourth level.

The platform 4 is now connected to the fifth 52 and uppermost cross bars of the second end and to an elbow section 94 of the access uprights 50. The hinged section 58 of the platform 4 is lifted and secured to the guard rail system 14 whilst accessing the platform of the scaffolding tower. Once the platform has been accessed the gate and the hinged section are closed for safety whilst the tower is in use.

The adjustable step system 20 also comprises second step unit formed by a step insert 96 which is connectable to the folding frame 2. The step insert of the second step unit is also illustrated in Figure 13. The step insert 96 comprises a pair of opposed support arms 98, 98' connected by an inner step 100 extending therebetween and an L shaped angle bar 102. The step insert 96 of the second step unit has a scaffolding clip 104 which is U shaped as is common in the field and which is connected at a lower end 106 of each support arm 98, 98' and is connectable to the frame 2 by means of the scaffolding clips 104 engaging with the third cross rail 46 between the frame upright 36 and the access upright 50 on each side of the opening 40. The L shaped angle bar 102 is arranged to butt against and engage the platform 4 at the edge of the opening of the hinged section 58.

Once the step insert 96 of the second step unit has been fixed to the folding frame 2 the platform 4 can be accessed by climbing the steps and entering through the opening of the cutaway section. The guard rail system 14 continues to provide security to a user on the platform. The platform 4 is typically at 1100mm from the ground and is at the top of the folding frame 2. Access up the stairs is much easier and safer than trying to access the platform by means of the trap door 60. in addition accessing the platform causes much less fatigue than accessing existing platforms. Furthermore access is faster so improving work flow and efficiency.

Turning to Figure 9 should the scaffolding tower I be needed to access higher work areas the platform 4 can be raised higher by using an extension pack 110 comprising an additional set of first and second rung uppers 112, 114 which can be connected to the first and second end sections 22, 24 of the folding frame. One or more cross bars or diagonal braces 116 are provided between the first and second ends for additional bracing and rigidity. The platform 4 may be connected to a level of the extension rung upper 112, 114 as desired. The guard rail system 14 is connectable to the uprights 118 of the extension rung uppers 112, 114.

An alternative embodiment for accessing higher work areas will be described with reference to Figure 20.

As can be seen in Figures 9 and 10 the extension rung uppers 112, 114 can be connected to the frame uprights 36 by means of connecting sleeves 120 that fit over ends of the frame uprights 36. The uprights 124 of the rung uppers can be slid into the connecting sleeves 120. It will be appreciated that the platform 4 is now typically 1300mm or higher above the ground level and may be accessed by means of the trap door 60 by climbing the cross bars and rung uppers of the second end in the normal fashion and climbing through the trap door onto the platform. Once on the platform the trap door is closed and the user can work in safety on the platform.

The guard rail system 14 will be described in more detail now and can be readily seen in Figure 16.

The guard rail system 14 comprises uprights 80 adapted to connect to the tubular frame uprights 36. The guard rail uprights 80 comprise bars adapted to slide within the tubes of the frame uprights and to be connected thereto by pins 84. When the extension pack is used the guard rail uprights 126 are received within the uprights 118 of the rung uppers 112, 114 and arc fixable thereto. Each guard rail system 14 comprises a pair of side rails 16, 132 arranged to be connected to the guard rail uprights 80 by means of a cap 134 connected to a side rail and arranged to fit over the guard rail upright 80. A transversely extending stub 138 is arranged to be secured to a mid-rail 140 of the guard rail system 14 by means of a connector 142. The connector 142 comprises a locking sleeve having a first end 144 and a second end 146. An opening 148 extends longitudinally from the first end. The opening 148 has first and second transverse extensions 150, 152 that extend circumferentially around the sleeve 142. The sleeve 142 is retained on the mid rail 140 by a projection 154 extending from the mid rail 140 that is located in the second transverse opening 152.

The sleeve 142 can be slid onto the stub 138 by aligning the longitudinal opening 148 with a projection 156 on the stub 138. Once the stub 138 is fully inserted in the sleeve 142 the projection 156 on the stub is aligned with the first transverse opening 150 and the sleeve 142 can be rotated so locking the side rail 132 to the guard rail upright 126.

The connector 142 described above can be used to connect other bars to one another. The connector 142 is particularly desirable in relation to scaffolding bars providing a quick and easy secure connection for bars having a projection at the end of the bar.

The guard rail system also comprises a hinged gate 18 illustrated in detail in Figures 17a to 17e. The gate 18 has an upper section 158 arranged be connectable to the guard rail upright 126 by means of a hinge 160 provided on one side of the upper section 158 and a releasable latch 162 on the opposed side of the upper section 158.

A depending portion 164 connects the upper portion to a lower bar 166 having extendible ends 168 on either side of the bar 166.

The ends 168 of the lower bar 166 are arranged to extend to close a space between the guard rail uprights 126. The ends 168 of the lower bar 166 are retractable so the gate 54 can be positioned with the upper section 158 above the cutaway and the bar 166 extends across the cutaway opening 40. The ends may also be retracted when the hinged section is raised and the gate is opened at the same time to allow access to the platform.

An alternative embodiment of a gate 167 is illustrated in Figure I8a and 18b. The same reference numbers are used for corresponding parts. The gate 167 is fixed in position and connected to the uprights 80 at either side of the second end by means of connectors 169. This gate can be used at the second end of the platform to provide a secure rail around the platform as can be seen in for example Figure 7. It will be appreciated that the gate 167 does not open. In some cases it may be preferable to provide an opening gate at the second end.

in use the folding frame 2 can be transported in a collapsed or folded arrangement and can fit readily into a van or through a door. Once in position the folding frame is unfolded to an operative position and the elbows 30 are locked. The platform 4 can be connected to the frame 2 by hooking the clips of the platform over the corresponding cross rails 38 at each end of the frame. The platform can be connected at the first, second, third, fourth or fifth level cross rails.

The scaffolding tower 1 can be wheeled from one position to another in the operative position. Once in a desired location the wheels 34 can be locked so that the scaffolding tower is stable and fixed in position.

The external first step unit 20 can be stored in an inoperative position adjacent to the end section as shown in Figure 15 and described above. The step insert 96 of the second step unit, shown in Figure 13a and 13b, can be stored below the platform as can be seen in Figure 12b. The further step 88 can also be stored beneath the platform. It will be appreciated that the first step unit can be dismounted or detached from the foldable frame.

If the work space is relatively low the scaffolding tower 1 is set up at one of the lower heights and the appropriate numbers of steps of the adjustable step system 20 are connected to the folding frame 2. it may be desirable to have the platform at a height where only the external first step unit 20, or the external first step unit 20 and the further step 88 are used to access the platform 4. Alternatively the step system comprising the external first step unit, the further step and the step insert 96 of the second step unit may be used. Should it then be necessary to access a higher area the guard rail system 14 can be removed and an extension pack 110 connected to the folding frame 2. The guard rail system 14 is connected to the top of the extension pack as described above. The platform may be used on the lower levels of the extension or may be raised to the upper levels of the extension pack and the platform 4 can be accessed in the conventional way by of the rung upper and the trap door 60.

The scaffolding tower 1 is made out of aluminium tubing of the kind typically used in scaffolding. Typically the tubing has an outside diameter of 48mm. The tubing can be welded together in a conventional manner.

The platform in this embodiment is made from aluminium sections which can be shaped to support the load bearing required. Typically the shape may be 1-shaped or H shaped. Alternative suitable shapes may be used. Alternative materials may also be used rather than aluminium. Typically the platform comprises a decking material which is desirably non slip.

A number of connections in the scaffolding tower are clips and these are conventional quick release scaffolding clips. These can also be described as U shaped holders as are commonly used in the industry. The clips may be adapted to be slid into the end of the aluminium tubing and either welded or crimped to secure the clips to the tubing as required.

Step treads will be made out of aluminium sheeting with some kind of 'T' bar configuration underneath the treads for strength and rigidity.

It is envisaged that step treads will be made out of aluminium sheeting with a suitable bar configuration underneath the treads to provide strength and rigidity. A suitable bar might be a T bar configuration for instance.

An alternative embodiment providing access to higher work areas is shown in Figure 20. The scaffolding tower in Figure 20 comprises a further extension set. in this case the extension set comprises a pair of rung uppers 200 each having lockable wheels 202 and adapted to be connectable to the base of the frame at an end 204 distal from the wheels of the extension rung uppers. In this embodiment each rung upper comprises two rungs or cross rails 206. it will be appreciated that each rung upper may comprise 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or more cross rails and may be referred to as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, rung uppers. A pair of rung uppers can be selected to provide the necessary height to the working platform in order to be able to access the work area comfortably. As the rung uppers are connected to the bottom of the frame it is relatively easy to connect each rung upper as needed or to change the rung uppers as needed. The rung uppers may be connected by sliding a section of an upright of the rung upper within the upright 36 of the frame and securing thereto by means of a releasable pin 214.

Once a rung upper has been connected to the bottom of the frame the external step unit 208 will no longer be able to touch the ground. A leg extension 210 is provided which can be connected to the bottom of the arms 210. Each set of extension rung uppers 200 is provided with a corresponding leg extension 210 for the external step unit. The leg extension 210 has at least one tread 212 to allow easy access to the treads of the external step unit. The external step unit may be provided with removable feet 216 such that the feet 216 can be removed from the external step unit and reconnected to a base of the leg extension used. The feet and the leg extensions can be connected by releasable pins 218 as shown in Figure 20.

it has been found that the external first step unit 98 acts an anti-tipping device providing additional stability and preventing the foldable frame from tipping as a user accesses the platform. The external first step unit may have splayed legs to provide further stability.

Figure 21 illustrates and alternative embodiment of a scaffolding tower in accordance with the invention which will be described with reference to Figure 20 and the detailed views shown in Figures 22 to 27.

in the alternative embodiment of Figure 21, the folding frame comprises an alternative first end section 22', shown in more detail in Figure 27. Access uprights 50' are arranged to be substantially vertical rather than partially angled. A stop ring 51' is welded to each of the access uprights and provides a support for a further step 88' which may be inserted. The further step 88' is shown in more detail in Figure 26 and comprises a tread 89' and end sections 91'arranged to cooperate with the access uprights 50'. The further step 88' is prevented from moving downward by the stop rings 51'.

Figure 25 illustrates an alternative second step unit comprising a single tread 100' arranged to extend between first and second side supports 101'. The first and second side supports each have upper and lower scaffolding clips arranged to fit over a rail. The first and second supports are each cranked such that the lower scaffolding clips can engage with one of the first or second cross rails 93' which extend between the uprights 36' and the access uprights 50' on either side of the opening. The upper scaffolding clips 103' are arranged to fit over a cross rail 95' provided on an alternative platform as can be seen in Figure 21. The alternative platform 4' is illustrated in Figure 22 and as can be seen comprises a hatch 60' at one end and a lifting hinged section 58' at the opposing end. Scaffolding clips 56' are provided at either end of the platform to connect the platform to cross rails on the frame. The cross rail 93' extends from a first side to a second side of the platform and is positioned to be below the hinged section 58' when the hinged section is lowered. Lifting the hinged section accesses the cross rail and allows the second step unit to be connected thereto. A user can step from the single tread 100' to the platform 4'.

Figures 23 and 24 illustrate an alternative first step unit. The alterative first step unit comprises a pair of side supports formed by upper arms 69' and lower arms 71'. A first tread 72' extends between the upper arms 69'. The upper arms are connectable to a cross rail by means of scaffolding clips 74'. Second and third treads 78' extend between the lower arms. The second and third treads 78' have a triangular form such that a flat upper surface is presented to a user, facilitating use of the steps.

In this embodiment the first step unit is relcasably connected to the first end section. The first step unit may be disconnected from the folding frame when the scaffolding tower is to be moved or may rotate towards the frame as it is folded.

It has been found that a scaffolding unit in accordance with the invention provides easier access to the platform and allows high frequency entry and exit to take place with less fatigue. The guard rail system provides a gate with a handrail so easing access to the platform The described scaffolding tower provide easy storage and use of the tower with external steps that are readily stored or removed for transporting and storage or moved to an operational position for use. The scaffolding tower provides a further step and a step insert so allowing access to higher levels. The guard rail is readily adjusted and provides a safe and secure working area at an heights. The scaffolding tower is readily combined with an extension pack for additional versatility and access to higher working levels and the platform is large enough to provide a useful working space.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A scaffolding tower comprising a folding frame comprising a first end section and a second end section connected by a folding side section; a platform connectable to the frame at two or more levels to form a working platform at two or more heights from the ground; the platform having a first and a second side and a first and a second end; a guard rail system connectable to the frame and arranged to surround the working platform; the guard rail system defining an periphery of the frame and having an opening in at least the first end and the scaffolding tower further comprising an adjustable step system connectable to the first end of the frame wherein the adjustable step system comprises a first step unit arranged to be connectable to the first end and in use to extend outwardly of the periphery of the frame and a second step unit arranged to be connectable to the first end and in use to extend inwardly of the periphery of the frame between the first end of the folding frame and the platform.
2 A scaffolding tower according to claim 1 wherein the first step unit comprises a number of steps connectable to the first end of the frame to provide access to the platform at multiple levels.
3. A scaffolding tower according to any preceding claim wherein the platform comprises a hinged section arranged adjacent the first end.
4. A scaffolding tower according to claim 3 wherein the second step unit comprises a step insert arranged to be connectable to the folding frame and having two opposed support arms and at least one step extending there between.
5. A scaffolding tower according to claim I wherein the first end section comprises first and second cross bars and a cut away section in the frame, the cut away section having first and second uprights on either side of the cutaway section.
6. A scaffolding tower according to claim 5 wherein the first step unit is connectable to at least one of the first and second bars of the frame.
7. A scaffolding tower according to claim 5 wherein the first step unit is connectable to at least the first and the second bars of the first end section.
8. A scaffolding tower according to claim 6 or claim 7 wherein the first step unit comprises a first tread and a second tread.
9. A scaffolding tower according to any one of claims 6 to 8 wherein the first step unit can be moved between a storage position connected to the frame and an active position connected to the frame.
A scaffolding tower according to any preceding claim wherein the first step unit can be dismounted from the scaffolding tower in use.
11. A scaffolding tower according to claim 5 wherein the scaffolding tower further comprises a step connectable to the first and second uprights provided on either side of the cutaway section.
12. A scaffolding tower according to any preceding claim wherein the platform further comprises a hatch.
13. A scaffolding tower according to any preceding claim wherein the guard rail system is adapted to cooperate with uprights of the folding frame and to be adjustably connectable to the folding frame uprights.
14. A scaffolding tower according to claim 13 wherein the guard rail system comprises first and second side rail sections connectable to uprights.
15. A scaffolding tower according to any one of claim 13 to 14 wherein the guard rail system comprises a number of connectors.
16. A scaffolding tower according to claim 15 wherein the connectors comprise a locking sleeve slideable on and retained on a tube of at least one of the rail sections and arranged to slide over and lock onto a projection on a rail of the upright.
17. A scaffolding tower according to any preceding claim wherein the guard rail system comprises gate.
18. A scaffolding tower according to claim 17 wherein the gate comprises an upper section and a lower section depending from the upper section and comprising a bar having extendible ends.
19. A scaffolding tower according to any preceding claim wherein the scaffolding tower further comprises an extension pack arranged to be fitted to the uprights. 10
20. A kit of parts comprising an adjustable step system comprising a first step unit and a second step unit; and at least one of a folding frame, a guard rail system, one or more connectors; a hinged platform; such that the contents of kit can be used to make a scaffolding tower in accordance any of claims 1 tol9.
21. A kit of parts according to claim 20 wherein the kit further comprises an extension pack.
22. A kit of parts according to claim 21 wherein the extension pack comprises at least two rung uppers connectable to the folding frame. 25
23. An extension pack adapted to be connected to a scaffolding tower in accordance with at least one of claims 1 to 19 wherein the extension pack comprises at least one set comprising two rung uppers adapted to be connectable to a base of the folding frame, the rung uppers having lockable wheels and being connectable to the base of the folding frame at an end of the rung upper distal from the wheels.
24. An extension pack in accordance with claim 23 wherein the extension pack further comprises at least one kg extension arranged to be connectable to the external step unit to extend the step unit to the ground.
25. An extension pack according to claim 24 wherein a leg extension is provided in combination with each set of rung uppers.26 An adjustable step system adapted to be connectable to a scaffolding tower having a platform and a guard rail system arranged around a periphery of the platform; the adjustable step system comprising at least a first step unit arranged to be connectable to a first end of a scaffolding tower and in use to extend externally from the first end; and a second step unit arranged to be able to connect to the first end and in use to extend internally of a periphery of the scaffolding tower between the first end and the platform.27. An adjustable step system according to claim 26 comprising a further step arranged to be connectable to the first end.28. An adjustable step system according to claim 27 wherein the further step comprises an insert step connectable to uprights in the first end section and preferably the insert step is connectable by means of retractable bolts.29. An adjustable step system according to claim 27 or claim 28 wherein the step insert comprises a pair of support arms with a step extending there between the step insert being connectable to uprights in a folding frame.30. A folding frame comprising a first end section and second end section connected by a folding side section at least the first end section having an opening defined by uprights and the first end section being adapted to be connectable with a first step unit and a second step unit to form a scaffolding tower in accordance with claim 1. . 31. A locking sleeve connector for scaffolding, the connector comprising a sleeve having a first end and a second end and an opening extending longitudinally from the first end the opening having first and second transverse extensions.32. A connector according to claim 31 wherein the sleeve is adapted to fitted onto a first rail and to be retained thereon by an outwardly extending projection from the first rail and wherein the sleeve can be slid over a second rail and a second projection thereon and the sleeve is adapted to be rotated to secure the first rail and the second rail together, the projection on the first rail and the proceeding on the second rail being located in respective transverse extensions of the opening.33. A scaffolding tower as described herein with reference to the accompanying Figures.34. An adjustable step system as described herein with the reference to the accompanying Figures.A connector as described herein with reference to the accompanying Figures.